E. Kalimantan earmarks Rp 15b for Maratua airport

The East Kalimantan administration says it has allocated Rp 15 billion to develop a new airport on the tourist island of Maratua in Berau regency.

“Funds will be spent to build a runway 1,200 meters in length and 32 meters in width,” East Kalimantan Transportation Office head Zairin Zain said on Wednesday as quoted by Antara news agency. “The runway is expected to accommodate ATR aircraft, each with a capacity of up to 50

people.”

Preparations are already underway. “The airport is located on a coral and rock area that is solid enough for the construction of a runway,” Zairin said.

He added that the Berau regency administration would fund construction of the airport's departure and arrival terminals.

Zairin said that the airport would promote marine tourism, speed transportation access, promote more even development and support the national defense. (rkh)